2 minute read
Welcome to the Lakefront City!
Leesburg is in the heart of Lake County and a prime location for enjoying life in Florida. Less than an hour from famous amusement parks and within easy driving distance of the Atlantic Ocean or the Gulf of Mexico, it’s the ideal spot to stay and enjoy the best of Central Florida.
Perhaps the best description of this city comes from its motto: “A diverse community energetically working in collaboration to ensure that the city of Leesburg upholds its history, ambience and natural resources to become and stay a vibrant community.”
Founded in 1857 by Evander Lee and his brothers, Leesburg was a hub of business. The city’s proximity to Florida’s fresh waterways made it an ideal location to get supplies from the North for the store built by the Lee brothers. Leesburg was a frequent stop for people who enjoyed fishing and hunting. In fact, famous sharpshooter
Annie Oakley often came to hunt and is honored with a statue behind the Leesburg Public Library.
Leesburg is an inviting city with much to offer visitors and residents. Nestled between Lake Griffin and Lake Harris, the city, though modern, holds on to its small-town values and sense of community.
The first city hall was built in 1926. From 1930 until 1957, Leesburg was known for its popular Watermelon Festival. The Leesburg Historical Museum, on Sixth Street in the historic Woman’s Club Building, houses more information about Leesburg and its contributions to industry and agriculture.
Leesburg Bikefest is the world's largest 3-day motorcycle and music event.
Leesburg is home to a number of manufacturing businesses. As a result, the population swells to more than 50,000 during the work week, according to the city’s website. It’s interesting to note that the number of area automobile sales reaches higher than the number of residents. Sales from the area’s award-winning furniture stores also contribute significantly to the city’s economy.
Mayor Elise Dennison moved to Leesburg 12 years ago and has watched with pride as the city streets, buildings and institutions have been updated and modernized.
“That has really helped a lot in bringing it to the attention of a lot of people in the entire state of Florida,” Elise says. “I really hope Leesburg continues to grow the way we have planned, to make it a better place to live and to have a population that is happy being here.”
As a member of the board of directors for the Florida League of Cities, she frequently meets with officials from across the state.
“I have to tell you, the mayors and commissioners are really sitting up and taking notice of what’s happening in our city,” Elise says. “We’re becoming a template for a lot of what they are starting to do. I’m pretty proud of our city. I hope this continues and keeps improving.”
